More than 30 people joined Pastor Terry Weems and members of his congregation at New Life Fellowship Church for their third annual Holy Walk Friday.
The cooler weather didn’t seem to affect the high spirits of the walkers, who came from different churches and age groups.
Gathered in prayer before the walk, Weems reminded all in attendance that Good Friday is “indeed a great day for us but a bad day for our Christ,” referencing the crucifixion of Jesus.
The participants were challenged to reflect upon the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus and were told by Weems that “no matter what kind of pain or discomfort you feel during this walk, it’s nothing compared to what He felt that day.”
The walkers began at New Life Fellowship Church on Eagle Day Avenue before taking a right on Broad Street. They then headed down Sumrall Road and RA Johnson Drive before returning to the church.
Two large crosses were carried the length of the walk, which measured nearly three miles. Emotions were high as many drivers stopped on the side of the road to watch the procession come by, each getting a chance to reflect on the true meaning of Good Friday and the cross.
The idea for the Holy Walk was born a little more than three years ago when New Life Fellowship Church Youth Director Renee Perry had the idea.
“I thought there needed to be a way for our youth to reflect on the true meaning of today,” she said. “The act of taking turns carrying the cross just lets them know that we didn’t deserve his mercy and grace.”
The numbers of walkers has been getting larger every year, and this year’s event was escorted through town by the Columbia Police Department and Columbia Fire Department. Participants and community leaders were treated with a hot breakfast following the event as well as a time of reflection and fellowship.
Pictured Above: Flozell Daniels, left, and Cora Johnson carry crosses Friday on RA Johnson Drive during a Holy Walk by New Life Fellowship Church. In rear are Charles Brown, Valerie Aikens and Derick McCoy. The third annual event leading up to Easter drew more than 30 participants to reflect on Christ’s sacrifice. | Photo by Charlie Smith
